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Interview with Track & Field Standout Maya Stephens.

Maya Stephens is former Track & Field runner from St. John’s University. She is currently running the 200m and 400m for Canada. During her four years at St. Johns she was selected to the All-BIG EAST Outdoor Team every year. She likes to read and shop in her free time. She is also a cofounder of FitCurls.

In your own words, describe your favorite event and what you love about it?

My favorite event is the 400m. It took me a long time to embrace it, because I thought it was so difficult to run. Since I’ve learned the proper race strategies to use to make it less difficult, I’ve learned to really love it.

What is your best memory as a Red Storm?

It would have to be being named the Big East Championship performer of the meet after winning the 400m, 200m, 4x100m relay and finishing second in the 4x400m relay. It was so hard on my body, but receiving that award was worth it.

Who would be on your Dream Team Relay Team?

This is so tough to answer, because every relay team I have been part of has been so special to me and brought something different to the table every time!

What athlete was the most difficult you ever faced?

I personally think that the most difficult athlete I’ve ever faced was myself. I do not really worry about my competitors, especially in the 400m where you really have to focus on your own race and not anyone else’s. I’d say I’m my biggest competitor, only because I’m always just trying to beat my own personal goals and be the best I can possibly be.

What is the strangest thing that you’ve seen happen during a race?

I’ve seen people’s shoes fly off and they’ve continued to run. Nothing too crazy!

What are your track & field plans now, since you graduated from St. John’s University?

I plan on continuing to run professionally with Canada.

If you could attend any sporting event in the world, what would you choose?

I’d love to attend the Olympics, but not as a spectator, as a competitor.

What random stranger has had the biggest impact on your life?

I remember when I was about 16, I went to a training camp in Florida. I was the only girl in my training group, so I’d have to run with the boys. I would of course be far behind them. I remember a random lady at the track came up to me and said “keep pushing, you doing great!” and that just reminded me that everything is relative. It obviously looked that I wasn’t talented, because I was trailing behind the pack. I was actually doing pretty well, it’s just that I was among boys.

What memory do you just keep going back to?

Making my first national team ever. I was 18, I went to Canadian nationals without even having the standard and being ranked really low on the list. I ended up coming in 2nd place and running a lifetime best in the 100m which was also faster than the standard so I made Team Canada.

What’s something you’ve always wanted to try?

I really, really, really want to dye my hair platinum blonde, but I’m just too scared of the damage lol.

Favorite cartoon?

Bob’s Burgers! I can watch it every single day and never get tired of it.